Ultimate Guide for Stay in Bali
Bali can be a paradise if you only know where to seek it. Bali offers something for everyone: spiritual and cultural charm, white sandy beaches, great surf, beautiful rice terraces, and volcanic mountains; the list goes on and on.
This ultimate guide will help you to decide where to stay in Bali. The writer is a nomad who loves authenticity, elegance, and peace.
Because there’s so much to explore on this beautiful Indonesian island, narrowing down which area you want to base yourself in can take time. Nonetheless, this guide includes all the best places to stay in Bali so you can choose which experience will suit you the most, whether you’re looking for authentic Balinese culture, a relaxing beach holiday, great nightlife, or breathtaking natural beauty by its lush green rice fields and mighty volcanos kissing the skies that dominate its landscape, unspoiled beaches, and epic waterfalls.
This tropical island, however, is much more than just nature.
In addition, you can also find vibrant beach clubs, Michelin-starred restaurants, and unique hotels – from bamboo houses and traditional Indonesian huts to boutique and 5-star luxury resorts. The choice is infinite!
About Bali
Before you know where to stay in Bali, going in-depth into what this island is all about makes sense. Bali is in the middle of Indonesia, a province and island. For numerous years now, it has been a favorite tourist spot. Surfers love the beaches here, and those who want to see the beautiful sites Bali offers.
If you are searching for beaches to enjoy fresh seafood, some places to visit are Canggu, Jimbaran, Seminyak, and Uluwatu. It is indeed a haven for beach bums. For obvious enough reasons, photographers, travelers, vloggers, and temple-goers flock to Bali yearly.
The Western influence is quite prominent in this island, even dubbed a “foreigner-friendly” destination. Whether a paradise retreat or searching for yoga classes, restaurants, and shopping, you will find everything you need in different areas of Bali.
Be sure to have some Indonesian rupiah, the local currency, as businesses cannot charge you in dollars. You should carry about 10,000 to 100,000 (approximately $0.65 to $6.5) notes for your daily expenses.
The official language here is Indonesian. Nevertheless, you will also hear Balinese, especially in the countryside, although many people speak Indonesian. Thanks to the large expat population and tourists, you will find many people who can speak English in the area.
Going around and finding places to stay in Bali should be easy. The climate, in general, is warm. Still, it can also be rainy, especially if you visit from January to April or October to November. So, the Best time to travel to Bali depends on your lifestyle and preferences.
Bali may seem like a small island, but you will undoubtedly have a lot of places to enjoy. Yet you should be aware that traffic here can be very congested, so trying to reach your destination earlier makes sense.
Fast facts about Bali:
- It is an Island province with other smaller islands, namely Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Penida, and Nusa Lembongan.
- Leaving some food on your plate is the proper etiquette if you are invited to eat in a local family home.
- Mounts Agung and Mount Batur are active volcanoes on the island.
- The Hindu celebration, Nyepi, the day of silence for one day, calls for all businesses to shut down their operations.
- The island has the highest concentrations of spas in the world.
When you are ready to move, it is time to learn the best areas.
Where To Stay In Bali In A Nutshell
Where are the best places to stay in Bali? The answer to this famous question varies depending on your preferences, expectations, and the length of your Bali vacation. If you need more time to read the whole guide, then this section will give you a quick idea about the best areas in Bali and what’s precisely unique about those.
CANGGU: The best place to stay in Bali for surfers & backpackers.
Located west of Kuta, Canggu is an hour’s drive from the Main airport. Most of Bali’s expats live in Canggu, packed with trendy cafes and cool coworking spaces. Canggu also has excellent nightlife and good surfing for all levels.
This is a surf town turned digital nomad hub, perfect for those who want to meet other travelers, catch some great waves, and enjoy beautiful Bali sunsets from trendy beach bars.
The town has chilled beach vibes but has seen a tourism explosion in the last few years. Because of this, visitors can expect big crowds and high prices. There are still some lovely rice paddies just outside the town. However, if beautiful natural scenery, a peaceful atmosphere, and authentic Balinese culture are what you’re after, visit Sidemen, Amed, or Ubud instead.
UBUD: Best place to stay in Bali for yoga, nature & culture lovers
Being tucked away in the middle of the island, Ubud is an excellent base for exploring more authentic parts of Bali, visiting waterfalls and temples, and climbing volcanoes. Ubud is also known to be the island’s spiritual and cultural capital and is famous for nature and yoga retreats.
Ubud is a creative and cultural hub in the heart of Bali, surrounded by beautiful green rice paddies and lush jungles. It’s also one of the best places to stay on the island to experience traditional Balinese culture.
ULUWATU and Bukit Penisula: The best area in Bali for beach lovers & couples.
Uluwatu is situated in the southernmost part of Bali on the Bukit Penisula and is around one hour’s drive from the island’s main airport. You will find chic beach clubs, Bali’s best beaches, and world-class surfing spots here.
Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula on the southernmost tip of Bali offer some of the most incredible coastal scenery, with beautiful beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and stunning ocean views. This area is also close to the airport, so it is a good option if you are away for long.
NUSA DUA: The Best area of Bali for honeymooners, resort life & family.
Nusa Dua is a true tropical island paradise and the most luxurious area in Bali, with beautiful white sand beaches, great golf courses, and 5-star hotels. The exclusive resort area is great if you have a higher budget and want a luxury beach holiday away from the crowds. However, be aware that it is relatively isolated from the main areas of Bali. Although very close to the airport (about 20 minutes), there are better places to base yourself if you want to explore other destinations during your stay.
Just a 20-minute drive from the main airport, Nusa Dua is about the best resorts in Bali in a gated community. Nusa Dua boasts immaculate private beaches and world-class services.
SEMINYAK: Best area to stay in Bali for couples, foodies & nightlife.
Consider Seminyak your base if you love fine dining, boutique accommodation, good nightlife, and a lively atmosphere.
Seminyak is a great place to base yourself in Bali. It has a lively city-like atmosphere, sits on the beach, and is close to many sightseeing spots. Located on the west coast, Seminyak is also where the most affordable villas are. As such, it’s a good option for those looking for a stylish, sophisticated setting on a budget.
Where To Stay In Bali For First-Time Visitors
Uluwatu – Bali: Best Area To Stay For COUPLES & Beautiful Beaches
Uluwatu is the best place to stay in Bali for those who love beautiful beaches and enjoy being close to the beach. There’s an excellent range of hotels, from budget and boutique-style to luxury accommodations.
This peninsula part of the island has the best beaches in Bali, from famous beaches like Padang Padang to hidden gems like Nyang Nyang.
You will also find incredible beach clubs, world-renowned surf spots, excellent restaurants, modern cafes, and traditional Balinese warungs.
Even During the rainy season, from October to March, Uluwatu gets the best, most sunny weather.
Uluwatu Bali – Location
Uluwatu is in the southernmost part of the island, Bukit Peninsula, a one-hour drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport. It neighbors Nusa Dua from the east and Jimbaran from the North.
Bali Airport | 40 minutes drive.
Sanur Ferry Port | 60 minutes drive.
Seminyak | 1 hour drive.
Ubud | 90 minutes to 2 hours drive.
Things To Do In Uluwatu
- Visit the best Uluwatu beaches – Melasti Beach, Bingin Beach & Balangan Beach.
- Lerarn surfing on Padang Padang Beach.
- Enjoy tropical sunset cocktails at the Uluwatu beach clubs – Palmilla Bali, El Cabron, or Savaya Bali.
- Watch the Balinese Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple at sunset.
- Watch professional surfers riding the waves from Single Fin Bali (Suluban Beach).
- Eat at the fabulous cafes: Ours Bali, Suka Espresso, Gooseberry, Nourish, and Drifter Surf Shop Cafe.
- Learn about the Balinese Hindu culture at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park.
- Find your paradise at one of the detached beaches such as Green Bowl, Nyang Nyang, or Pandawa Beach.
Pros & Cons of Staying In Uluwatu
PROS
- Best of Bali beaches
- Best advanced surf spots
- Quitter than Seminyak or Canggu
CONS
- A little remote
- Some beaches require a strenuous hike down
- Nightlife is limited to beach clubs.
Ubud – Best Bali Place To Stay For Art, CULTURE, YOGA & NATURE
Ubud is the best location in Bali for yoga and nature enthusiasts, boasting excellent yoga parlors and sustainable boutique hotels. Spending a few days here to experience Bali’s spiritual side would be best.
Ubud is also a great place to base yourself for exploring Northern Bali, hiking and visiting waterfalls, and for those who want to hike the Mt Batur volcano.
What was just a tiny village of locals today is a busy town full of excellent tourist infrastructure. Ubud may not be at all a hidden gem. However, you should step away from its center. In that case, the city still offers a taste and a unique experience of authentic Bali. North of Ubud after Tegallalang is still unspoiled.
Ubud is a creative and cultural hub in the heart of Bali, surrounded by beautiful green rice paddies and lush jungles. It’s also one of the best places to stay on the island to experience traditional Balinese culture.
The artistic center is a popular tourist destination; visitors flock here for the beautiful natural scenery and serene setting to relax and rejuvenate at the many yoga studios and wellness centers.
- Budget: Mid to high-range
- Crowds: Crowded in the center, particularly during the high season
- To do: Monkey Forest, Ubud Water Palace, Ubud Market, Spa treatments, Yoga
- Best for: A little bit for everyone
Ubud Bali – Location
Lush rice paddies and jungle surround Ubud and sit in the island’s center. Here are distances to some of the most critical points of interest on the island:
Bali Airport | 1 hour 20 minutes drive.
Sanur Ferry Port | 1-hour drive.
Seminyak | 90 minutes drive.
Uluwatu | 90 minutes to 2 hours drive.
Where to Stay in Ubud
There are some beautiful hotels in the town and the surrounding villages and a great choice of hostels in Ubud. The best areas to stay in and around Ubud are:
- There are some beautiful hotels and villas in the town and the surrounding villages, and a great choice of villas just outside Ubud. The best areas to stay in and around Ubud are:
- Ubud Center – great for central location, but crowded
- Penestanan – village life
- North of Ubud and Taro – Authentic Village life, Spiritual retreats, hiking and Cycling, Less Crowded and calm
- Tegalalang – home to some of the most stunning rice terraces in Bali
Things To Do In Ubud
- Explore Ubud town: Ubud Palace & Saraswati Temple of Lotus.
- Shop at Ubud Market for handmade souvenirs
- Take a scenic walk (Jalan jalan) along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.
- Wonder through the monkey sanctuary (Be careful with your THINGS, though) (Ubud Monkey Forest).
- Visit the famous Tegalalang Rice Fields.
- Go North, take a Hike, Go to Taro Village, visit the traditional village of Delodsema
- Take a Silver Jewelry Class in Delodsema Village
- Visit waterfalls: Tibumana, Suwat, & Kanto Lampo Falls.
- Take part in the ceremony at Pura Tirta Empul.
- Take a cooking class or yoga workshop.
- Hike to Mt Batur at dawn.
- Visit Mason Chocolate Factory and the Adventure Rides.
Pros & Cons of Staying In Ubud
PROS
- A great and varied selection of unique accommodation
- Wide range of cafes, restaurants & interesting shops
- Plenty to do and see
- Close to nature
CONS
- No beach access
- Further away from the airport
- Limited nightlife
Canggu – Best Place For SURFERS, BACKPACKERS & DIGITAL NOMADS
Canggu has become the heart of the digital nomads’ life on the island, home to aspiring influencers, content creators, and start-up entrepreneurs. Yet you need to understand that it’s highly crowded, hence the proper accommodation is expensive. Here, you will find people with their laptops on in every cafe. There’s a great range of coworking spaces and good gyms.
Canggu has also become the newest best part of Bali for backpackers, with many hostels with vibes, a bustling nightlife scene, and various places to eat. Before 2020/ 2021, Kuta was the backpacker’s paradise, but now everyone has come to Canggu!
One of the best places to stay in Bali for solo female travelers is Canggu.
This is a surf town turned digital nomad hub, perfect for those who want to meet other travelers, catch some great waves, and enjoy beautiful Bali sunsets from trendy beach bars.
Canggu, Bali – Location
Canggu is located next to Seminyak on the Southeast.
Bali Airport | 1-hour drive.
Sanur Ferry Port | 1-hour drive.
Uluwatu | 1 hour 30 minutes drive.
Ubud | 1-hour drive.
Things To Do In Canggu
- Eat. Forget about Praying or Love just Eat, Eat and Eat your way through Canggu in its many incredible cafes! Some of the best include Cinta Cafe, Doppio, Coach Cafe, and Copenhagen.
- Take a surfing class at Batu Balong Beach.
- Have a fresh coconut every day on the beach.
- Visit and see Tanah Lot Temple at dusk.
- Go out! yes every…and if you are not for that, Move to Umalas in between Canggu and Seminyak.
- Go to the Sunday farmer’s market in La Brisa.
- Shop sustainable Bali brands such as Cove, Amalfi Moon, ELCE, Stella, and Above the Clouds & Kohei for men’s fashion.
- Enjoy the day at Finn’s Beach Club.
Pros & Cons of Staying In Canggu
PROS
- Excellent food scene
- Great nightlife & social life
- A wonderful place to learn surfing
- Ideal for remote solo workers
- It is an excellent place to stay in Bali for singles and easy mingle
Cons
- Canggu beaches are not suitable for swimmers due to shore break
- Pretty Expensive
- Crowded, yes it is crowded a lot
Where To Stay In Bali For Couples
Seminyak – Top Place To Stay For LUXURY
If you’re after more of a holiday vibe with a boutique luxury stay & an excellent variety of restaurants and boutiques, pick Seminyak. Staying here will be more like a vacation than in Canggu, where most people work in cafes all day, but staying in Kuta will be much more refined.
Seminyak Beach is also a good place for taking your first surfing lessons, and the central location will make arranging some exciting excursions around the island easy.
Seminyak – Location
Between Canggu and Kuta, Seminyak sits in a relatively central location close to Bali’s main points of interest.
Bali Airport | 45 minutes drive.
Sanur Ferry Port |50-55 minutes drive.
Uluwatu | 1 hour drive.
Ubud | 1 hour and 10 minutes drive.
Things To Do In Seminyak
- Take a surf lesson on Double Six Beach.
- Visit the Instagrammable spas.
- Take your time on Tuesdays for Tacos; eat Mexican food at La Plancha or Hotel Mexicola.
- Go shopping! Yes, it’s all about shopping. Seminyak & Canggu are the best places in Bali for shopping.
- Spend the evening at Potato Head Beach Club.
Pros & Cons of Staying In Seminyak
PROS
- Excellent options for the food scene
- Central in location
- Good nightlife
- Great places for beginners’ surf lessons
CONS
- Beaches in Seminyak are not as beautiful as in Uluwatu.
Jimbaran – Best Area To Stay For SWIMMING BEACH & SEAFOOD
Jimbaran is another perfect place to stay in Bali with your better half. It boasts a great range of luxury hotels spread along its 4 km long white sandy beach, ideal for a romantic stay for just the two of you.
The beach in Jimbaran is easily accessible, so you won’t need to descend a steep cliff to get there. The sea is also super calm, which makes Jimbaran Beach an excellent swimming beach. You can rent a kayak or standup paddleboard & explore the nearby shores.
The beach comes to life in the evenings, with white-clothed table set-ups of the seafood restaurants, tourists, expats, locals walking the beach, & the vendors selling vast from grilled corn to local bakso snacks and colorful toys.
Jimbaran Bali – Location
Jimbaran is a small town just below the island’s airport on the map, close to Kuta and the great Uluwatu beaches. This location makes Jimbaran a good base for exploring the island’s southern highlights.
Bali Airport | 15 minutes drive.
Sanur Ferry Port | 30 minutes drive.
Uluwatu | 30 minutes drive.
Ubud | 1 hour 15 minutes drive.
Things To Do In Jimbaran
- Go kayaking or standup paddle boarding.
- Have a romantic sunset dinner at one of the best seafood restaurants on the beach.
- Spend a fun day visiting Kuta.
- Enjoy tropical sunset cocktails at the epic Jimbaran’s Rock Bar.
Pros & Cons of Staying In Jimbaran
PROS
- Beautiful white sandy beach with a calm sea
- A paradise for seafood lovers
- Suitable for families as well
CONS
- No nightlife if you need it
- Not suitable for surfing, yes we mentioned the cal part.
Where are the best places To Stay In Bali For Families
Nusa Dua and Sanur might be the best places for families on Holidays to stay in Bali, but also consider Jimbaran, which can be excellent.
Kuta – BUDGET FRIENDLY Place For Families
Kuta was a party place and a backpacker’s paradise in the past, but this has dramatically changed after 2020-2021. Today, Kuta is no longer the crazy party place since the “younger crowd” much prefers the hipster vibe of Canggu. Instead, Kuta is favored by families and mature travelers.
If you want to find the best family-friendly places to stay, check out Legian, which boasts a relaxed vibe and fabulous resorts perfect for a family vacation
And if you’re after an absolute bargain, check out hotels in Kuta in the south that offer great deals. South Kuta is also one of the best places to stay in Bali for mature travelers looking for a cheaper stay.
Apart from excellent hotels, Kuta has a vast stretch of sandy beach with significant beginner surf breaks and a great selection of shops, restaurants, bars, and various entertainment venues.
Kuta, Bali – Location
A few kilometers south of Bali’s international airport and neighbors Seminyak to the south and Denpasar to the east, Kuta is right in the middle of the busiest part of Bali. Surely comes its benefits, such as excellent infrastructure, yet drawbacks, such as highly crazy traffic.
Bali Airport | 20-25 minutes drive.
Sanur Ferry Port | 40 minutes drive.
Uluwatu | 1- hour drive.
Ubud | 1 hour 15 minutes drive.
Things To Do In Kuta
- Spend the day at Waterbom Bali.
- Take a surf lesson.
- Chill at Kuta Beach.
- Go shopping at Kuta’s malls, such as Beachwalk.
- Visit Kuta’s Buddhist Temple – Vihara Dharmayana.
Pros & Cons of Staying In Kuta
PROS
- Amazing hotel deals
- Suitable for families (Legian)
- Central location
- Excellent restaurants, cafes & shops
- It is a superb place for beginner surfers
CONS
- Lacks authentic Balinese charm
- It can be hectic with traffic
Nusa Dua – Where To For SAFE BEACHES & LUXURY RESORTS
Nusa Dua is hands down the best place to stay in Bali with a family seeking a relaxing getaway, boasting pristine, white-sanded beaches and luxury resorts. If you’re celebrating something special or want to treat yourself and loved ones to a stay in the finest resort in Bali that offers a world-class service, this is it.
The most luxurious resorts and hotels in Nusa Dua are in a gated community along the east coast between Benoa & Penisula Island. They feature finely-manicured roads lined up with palm trees & an absolute, pristine beach. The Nusa Dua resorts are also great for providing entertainment, so you may always want to stay on their grounds!
Nusa Dua Bali – Location
Nusa Dua occupies the eastern part of Bukit Penisula, & it only takes about 20-25 minutes to get from the airport.
Bali Airport | 20-25 minutes drive.
Sanur Ferry Port | 30 minutes drive.
Seminyak | 40 minutes drive.
Ubud | 1 hour & 30 minutes drive.
Things To Do In Nusa Dua
- Swim, go kayaking, or stand-up paddling.
- Take a ride in a glass-bottom boat and explore the marine life.
- Go shopping at the Bali Collection.
- Dine with the family at Le Petit Chef.
- Enjoy the fantastic forces of nature at Waterblow.
- Explore your golf skills at Bali National Golf Club.
Pros & Cons of Staying In Nusa Dua
PROS
- Stunning beaches
- Safe for kids & swimmers of all levels
- Most resorts have their private beach
CONS
- Not the most authentic part of Bali
- It can be very pricey.
- A little remote from the rest of the island
Sanur – Best Place For Families ON A BUDGET
This might be the ideal location for you if you’re on a tight budget and looking for where to stay in Bali with a family. Sanur has quiet beaches & a chilled vibe where nothing much is happening. The accommodation prices are meager here, and if chilling on a peaceful beach is one of your favorite activities, look no further. With shallow, calm, gentle sea, Sanur beaches are also great for children.
The port town of Sanur is also in a central location, excellent for visiting Ubud & Uluwatu.
Sanur Bali – Location
Sanur is in the southeastern part of Bali, just above Nusa Dua and Benoa. It is also known as a gateway to visiting the Nusa Islands, with a port that offers numerous daily connections.
Bali Airport | 30 minutes drive.
Seminyak | 35 minutes drive.
Uluwatu | 1 hour drive.
Ubud | 1 hour drive.
Things To Do In Sanur
- Enjoy a chilled, small-town vibe.
- Go kitesurfing.
- Watch the sunrise on the Beach.
- Take a day trip to Nusa Penida.
Staying In Sanur Pros & Cons
PROS
- Great value for money
- Close to the airport
- Central location
- Easy to visit Nusa Penida
CONS
- There is not much to do
Summary: Best Places to Stay in Bali
Whatever experience you are after, there is something for everyone in Bali. Where you choose to stay depends on your budget, how long you visit, and what you’re interested in doing while you’re here.
Suppose you’re visiting for ten days or more. In that case, it’s better to split your time between a few different places to experience a bit of everything and reduce travel times for day trips.
- Budget: Amed, Sidemen
- Backpacker: Canggu, Ubud
- Luxury: Nusa Dua, Uluwatu
- Spiritual: Ubud
- Adventure: Amed for diving, Uluwatu for surfing, Ubud for day trips
- Best beaches: Uluwatu, Nusa Penida Island, Amed, Nusa Dua
- Nature and beautiful scenery: Ubud, Amed, Sidemen, Nusa Penida Island
- Nightlife: Seminyak, Canggu
- Most central: Ubud
Tip: Ubud and Seminyak are the best places to stay in Bali if it’s your first time visiting the island, as they are central and offer you a small taste of what the island has to offer.